Hockey: Coach has last chance to experiment with attack

By TERRY MADDAFORD

The search for the right attacking combination in the New Zealand women's hockey team goes on.

In naming his squad for the three-test series against Australia next month, New Zealand coach Jan Borren has recalled Canterbury striker Carol Ward.

In the only change from the team who met India, Ward replaces her Canterbury team-mate Penny Munns.

They both played against South Korea this year, but Ward gave way to the returning Mandy Smith for the Indian matches.

With Smith retaining her place, Borren has taken the opportunity to reintroduce Ward in his last chance to consider his options for the all-important Champion's Trophy tournament in the Netherlands in August.

But only one - either Ward or Munns - will go to the Dutch tournament.

While there have been experiments in the attacking line, Borren is pleased with the defensive play and, in particular, North Harbour newcomers Lizzy Igasan and Paula Enoka.

There have also been changes in the Australian line-up since the Sydney Olympics. Nine of their gold medal-winning Olympians have retired.

The first test will be played in Wellington (July 26), the second at North Harbour (July 28) and the third in Hamilton (July 29).

New Zealand squad: Helen Clarke, Anne-Marie Irving, Paula Enoka, Lizzy Igasan, Sandy Bennett, Rachel Sutherland, Meredith Orr, Anna Lawrence, Michelle Turner, Suzie Pearce, Caryn Paewai, Leisen Jobe, Niniwa Roberts, Mandy Smith, Jaimee Provan, Carol Ward.